Foamable composition combining a polar solvent and a hydrophobic carrier

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a foamable vehicle or cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition, comprising: (1) an organic carrier, at a concentration of 10% to 70% by weight, wherein said organic carrier concurrently comprises: (i) at least one hydrophobic organic carrier, and (ii) at least one polar solvent; (2) at least one surface-active agent; (3) water; and (4) at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of 3% to 25% by weight of the total composition. 
     The present invention further provides a method of treating, alleviating or preventing a disorder of mammalian subject, comprising administering the above-mentioned compositions to an afflicted target site.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/488,989, filed on Jul. 19, 2006, entitled “Foamable Composition Combining a Polar Solvent and a Hydrophobic Carrier”, which claims benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/700,702, filed on Jul. 19, 2005, entitled “Foamable Composition Combining a Polar Solvent and a Hydrophobic Carrier,” both of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

This application is a continuation-in-part application of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 11/124,676, filed on May 9, 2005, entitled “Vasoactive Kit and Compositions and Uses Thereof,” which is a continuation-in-part application of co-pending International Patent Application No. IB03/005527, designating the United States and filed on Oct. 24, 2003, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/429,546, filed on Nov. 29, 2002, both entitled “Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Foam,” and which claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC§119(a) to Israeli Patent Application No. 152486, filed Oct. 25, 2002, all of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.

This application is also a continuation-in-part application of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/911,367, filed on Aug. 4, 2004, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/492,385, filed on Aug. 4, 2003, both entitled “Foam Carrier Containing Amphiphilic Copolymer Gelling Agent” and both hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.

This application is also a continuation-in-part application of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/835,505, filed on Apr. 28, 2004, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/530,015, filed on Dec. 16, 2003, and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/492,385, filed on Aug. 4, 2003, all entitled “Oleaginous Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Foam” and all hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.

This application is also a continuation-in-part application of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/922,358, filed Aug. 20, 2004, entitled “Penetrating Pharmaceutical Foam,” which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/497,648, filed on Aug. 25, 2003, both of which are incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to foamable pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions.

Foams and, in particular, foam emulsions are complicated systems which do not form under all circumstances. Changes in foam emulsion composition, such as by the addition of active ingredients may destabilize the foam. There is therefore a need for a foam composition which provides desirable properties to the skin and can remain stable whilst accommodating a variety of active ingredients.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,920 (“the '920 patent”) discloses treatment of various skin diseases, and in particular, scalp psoriasis, using a foamable pharmaceutical composition containing a corticosteroid active substance, an aliphatic alcohol, water, a fatty alcohol, a surface-active agent, a propellant and a buffering agent. The foamable composition contains 40-90% w/w composition of an aliphatic alcohol. The '920 patent is typical of many compositions that use aliphatic alcohols in the foam composition. The alcohol promotes fast drying and thereby attempts to address the sticky feeling left by many topical formulations after application; however, alcohols, and in particular the methyl, ethyl and isopropyl alcohols preferred in the '920 patent, are defatting agents and may cause skin to become dry and cracked. U.S. Pat. Application Pub. No. US2004/0151671 provides pharmaceutical compositions in a pressurized container, comprising a quick breaking alcoholic foaming agent. U.S. Pat. No. 5,783,202 provides a pediculicidal mousse composition containing a pediculicidal agent containing (a) from about 0.1 to about 10% w/w of a pediculicidal agent (b) about 70 to about 97% w/w of a foaming agent, which is preferably a quick breaking alcoholic foaming agent; and (c) from about 3 to about 20% w/w of an aerosol propellant. U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,288 teaches a pharmaceutical foam composition including (a) an active ingredient; (b) an occlusive agent; (c) an aqueous solvent; and (d) an organic cosolvent; wherein the active ingredient is insoluble in water and insoluble in both water and the occlusive agent; and wherein there is enough occlusive agent to form an occlusive layer on the skin.

A few dermatological foam products are available on the market.

Olux™ Foam, produced by Connetics, Inc., contains clobetasol propionate. Each gram of Olux™ Foam contains 0.5 mg clobetasol propionate, USP, in a thermolabile foam, which consists of ethanol (60%), purified water, propylene glycol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, citric acid, and potassium citrate. It is dispensed from an aluminum can pressurized with a hydrocarbon propellant (propane/butane). Luxiq™ corticostroid foam medication contains 1.2 mg betamethasone valerate per gram, in a vehicle, comprising ethanol (60.4%), purified water, propylene glycol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, citric acid, and potassium citrate, and pressurized with a hydrocarbon propellant. Alcohol is known to impair the integrity of the skin barrier, dry the skin and cause skin irritation. The incidence skin irritation (burning, itching and stinging) as detailed the package inserts of the above mentioned products is very high (54%), probably due to the high alcohol content. Moreover, the respective incidence of skin irritation caused by the vehicle of these foams is 75%.

Thus, while alcohol is useful in solubilizing an active agent and enabling effective dermal penetration of an active agent is desirable, the development of a safe foam vehicle, which will overcome the evident skin drying and irritation caused by alcohol, is warranted.

Furthermore, foam compositions that possess a lesser degree of thermal sensitivity, thus being more useful for the treatment of large skin areas are desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a foamable vehicle or cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition comprising:

(1) an organic carrier, at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% by weight, wherein said organic carrier concurrently comprises:

(i) at least one hydrophobic organic carrier and

(ii) at least one polar solvent

(2) at least one surface-active agent;

(3) water; and

(4) at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

The present invention further relates to said composition comprising an active agent.

In some embodiments, the foamable cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition is non-flammable, wherein said gas propellant contains hydrofluorocarbon.

The present invention further provides a method of treating, alleviating or preventing a disorder of mammalian subject, comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of the above-mentioned compositions to an afflicted target site.

The present invention further provides use of a therapeutically effective amount of the above-mentioned compositions in the manufacture of a medicament.

The present invention further provides a therapeutically effective amount of the above-mentioned compositions for use in the manufacture of a medicament.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a safe and effective foamable cosmetic or pharmaceutical vehicle or composition. The vehicle or composition contains a polar solvent, which can optionally be a short-chain alcohol, which possesses (as such) skin drying and skin irritation properties; however, the composition also contains a hydrophobic carrier, which counteracts these undesirable effects and overcomes these drawbacks.

In one or more embodiments, the foamable cosmetic or pharmaceutical vehicle includes:

(1) an organic carrier, at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% by weight, wherein said organic carrier concurrently comprises:

(i) at least one hydrophobic organic carrier and

(ii) at least one polar solvent

(2) at least one surface-active agent;

(3) water; and

(4) at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

In one or more embodiments the foamable cosmetic or pharmaceutical vehicle includes:

(1) an organic carrier, at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% by weight, wherein said organic carrier concurrently comprises

(i) at least one hydrophobic organic carrier, and

(ii) at least one polar solvent;

(2) about 0.1% to about 5% by weight of at least one surface-active agent;

(3) Water; and

(4) at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

In one or more embodiments a foamable cosmetic or pharmaceutical vehicle is provided wherein the ratio of the hydrophobic organic carrier and the polar solvent are selected to provide a selected pharmacological or safety property;

In one or more embodiments a foamable cosmetic or pharmaceutical vehicle is provided also incorporating a polymeric agent.

In one or more embodiments the polymeric agent is selected from a bioadhesive agent, a gelling agent, a film forming agent and a phase change agent and can be from about 0.01% to about 5% by weight

In one or more embodiments, a pharmaceutical or cosmetic foamable product is provided, wherein a pharmaceutical or a cosmetic active agent is incorporated in a foamable vehicle, which contains a polar solvent and a hydrophobic organic carrier.

Thus, in one or more embodiments, the pharmaceutical or cosmetic foamable product comprises:

(1) an effective concentration of at least one pharmaceutical or cosmetic active agent;

(2) an organic carrier, at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% by weight, wherein said organic carrier concurrently comprises

(i) at least one hydrophobic organic carrier

(ii) at least one polar solvent;

(3) about 0.1% to about 5% by weight of at least one surface-active agent; and

(4) at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant at a concentration of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the total composition.

In one or more embodiments of the pharmaceutical or cosmetic foamable product is non-flammable.

Water and optional ingredients are added to complete the total mass to 100%.

All % values are provided on a weight (w/w) basis.

Polar Solvent

A “polar solvent” is an organic solvent, typically soluble in both water and oil. Certain polar solvents possess the beneficial property of a heumectant, being a substance, which helps retain moisture, for example propylene glycol and glycerin.

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent is a heumectant.

According to one or more embodiments, the polar solvent comprises a short chain alcohol. Short chain alcohols, having up to 5 carbon atoms in their carbon chain skeleton and one hydroxyl group, such as ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, butanol, iso-butanol, t-butanol and pentanol. In one or more embodiments the concentration of the short chain alcohols is from about 5% to about 70%, preferably from about 10% to about 60%.

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent is a polyol. Polyols are organic substances that contain at least two hydroxy groups in their molecular structure.

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent contains an diol (a compound that contains two hydroxy groups in its molecular structure), such as propylene glycol (e.g., 1,2-propylene glycol and 1,3-propylene glycol), butanediol (e.g., 1,4-butanediol), butanediol (e.g., 1,3-butanediol and 1,4-butenediol), butynediol, pentanediol (e.g., 1,5-pentanediol), hexanediol (e.g., 1,6-hexanediol), octanediol (e.g., 1,8-octanediol), neopentyl glycol, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol and dibutylene glycol.

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent contains a triol (a compound that contains three hydroxy groups in its molecular structure), such as glycerin and 1,2,6-Hexanetriol.

Other non-limiting examples of polar solvents include pyrrolidones, (such as N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone and 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone), dimethyl isosorbide, 1,2,6-hexapetriol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), ethyl proxitol, dimethylacetamide (DMAc) and alpha hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid and glycolic acid.

According to still other embodiments, the polar solvent is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) or PEG derivative that is liquid at ambient temperature, including PEG200 (MW (molecular weight) about 190-210 kD), PEG300 (MW about 285-315 kD), PEG400 (MW about 380-420 kD), PEG600 (MW about 570-630 kD) and higher MW PEGs such as PEG 4000, PEG 6000 and PEG 10000 and mixtures thereof.

Polar solvents are known to enhance the penetration of active agent into the skin and through the skin, and therefore, their inclusion in the composition of the present invention is desirable, despite their undesirable skin drying and irritation potential. There is at one level a commonality between the different polar solvents and their penetration enhancement properties. However, lower molecular weight alcohols can sometimes be more potent as a solvent, for example by extracting lipids from the skin layers more effectively, which characteristic can adversely affect the skin structure and cause dryness and irritation. Therefore the selection of the hydrophobic carrier to counteract these negative effects may be of more importance when using the lower molecular weight alcohols.

Hydrophobic Solvent

A “hydrophobic organic carrier” as used herein refers to a material having solubility in distilled water at ambient temperature of less than about 1 gm per 100 mL, more preferable less than about 0.5 gm per 100 mL, and most preferably less than about 0.1 gm per 100 mL.

The identification of a hydrophobic organic carrier or “hydrophobic solvent”, as used throughout this specification synonymously, is not intended to characterize the solubilization capabilities of the solvent for any specific active agent or any other component of the foamable composition. Rather, such information is provided to aid in the identification of materials suitable for use as a hydrophobic carrier in the foamable compositions described herein.

In one or more embodiments, the hydrophobic organic carrier is a high-melting point hydrocarbon, such as, petrolatum.

In one or more other embodiments the use of high melting point hydrocarbons, such as petrolatum in concentrations of more than 10%, are not desirable since they have a waxy feeling when applied to the skin; yet, in certain additional embodiments, when an extensive refatting effect is required, then petrolatum in concentrations of more than 10%, for example between about 10% and about 50% is included in the composition of the present invention.

According to one or more embodiments, hydrophobic solvents are liquid oils originating from vegetable, marine or animal sources. Suitable liquid oil includes saturated, unsaturated or polyunsaturated oils. By way of example, the unsaturated oil may be olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, canola oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, borage seed oil, syzigium aromaticum oil, hempseed oil, herring oil, cod-liver oil, salmon oil, flaxseed oil, wheat germ oil, evening primrose oils or mixtures thereof, in any proportion.

Suitable hydrophobic solvents also include polyunsaturated oils containing poly-unsaturated fatty acids. In one or more embodiments, the unsaturated fatty acids are selected from the group of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Examples of such polyunsaturated fatty acids are linoleic and linolenic acid, gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Such unsaturated fatty acids are known for their skin-conditioning effect, which contribute to the therapeutic benefit of the present foamable composition. Thus, the hydrophobic solvent can include at least 6% of an oil selected from omega-3 oil, omega-6 oil, and mixtures thereof.

In the context of the present invention, oils that possess therapeutically beneficial properties are termed as “therapeutically active oil.”

Another class of hydrophobic solvents is the essential oils, which are also considered therapeutically active oils, and which contain active biologically occurring molecules and, upon topical application, exert a therapeutic effect. Non-limiting examples of essential oils include rosehip oil, which contain retinoids and is known to reduce acne and post-acne scars, and tea tree oil, which possess antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Other examples of essential oils are oils of anise, basil, bergemont, camphor, cardamom, carrot, canola, cassia, catnip, cedarwood, citronella, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, frankincense, garlic, ginger, grapefruit, hyssop, jasmine, jojova, lavender, lavandin, lemon, lime, mandarin, marjoram, myrrh, neroli, nutmeg, orange, peppermint, petitgrain, rosemary, sage, spearmint, star anise, tangerine, thyme vanilla, verbena and white clover.

Another class of therapeutically active oils includes liquid hydrophobic plant-derived oils, which are known to possess therapeutic benefits when applied topically.

Silicone oils also may be used and are desirable due to their known skin protective and occlusive properties. Suitable silicone oils include non-volatile silicones, such as polyalkyl siloxanes, polyaryl siloxanes, polyalkylaryl siloxanes and polyether siloxane copolymers, polydimethylsiloxanes (dimethicones) and poly(dimethylsiloxane)-(diphenyl-siloxane) copolymers. Silicone oils are also considered therapeutically active oil, due to their barrier retaining and protective properties.

A further class of hydrophobic carriers includes hydrophobic liquids, selected from the family of organic liquids described as “emollients.” Emollients possess a softening or soothing effect, especially when applied to body areas, such as the skin and mucosal surfaces. Examples of suitable emollients include isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl isostearate, diisopropyl adipate, diisopropyl dimerate, maleated soybean oil, octyl palmitate, cetyl lactate, cetyl ricinoleate, tocopheryl acetate, cetyl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, wheat germ glycerides, arachidyl propionate, myristyl lactate, decyl oleate, propylene glycol ricinoleate, isopropyl lanolate, pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, neopentylglycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, isononyl isononanoate, isotridecyl isononanoate, myristyl myristate, octyl dodecanol, sucrose esters of fatty acids and octyl hydroxystearate.

The foamable composition of the present invention can be an emulsion, or microemulsion, including an aqueous phase and an organic carrier phase.

One non-limiting benefit of combining a polar solvent and a hydrophobic carrier is apparent in the resulting conservation of skin barrier properties.

Another non-limiting benefit of combining a polar solvent and a hydrophobic carrier is further apparent in the reduction of skin irritation.

Another non-limiting benefit of the vehicle or composition of the present invention is to provide increased penetration of the active or beneficial agent whilst replenishing the skin for example by moisturizing or adding fats or oils.

The ratio between the polar solvent and the hydrophobic carrier is determined according to the desirable pharmacologic and safety properties of the product. Typically, the polar solvent to hydrophobic carrier ranges between about 1:4 and about 4:1, for example, about 1:4, about 1:2, about 3:4, about 1:1, about 5:4, about 4:2, about 2:1, about 3:1 and about 4:1. When high solubilization and/or enhanced dermal or transdermal delivery of a drug is desirable, the polar solvent to hydrophobic carrier is selected within the range of about 1:1 and about 4:1, for example, about 1:1, about 5:4. about 6:4, about 7:4, about 2:1, about 3:1 and about 4:1 Yet, in other case, when the need of enhanced skin protection and skin barrier build-up is more pronounced, the polar solvent to hydrophobic carrier is selected within the range of about 2:8 and about 1:1, for example, about 1:4, about 1:2, about 3:4 and about 1:1.

The following table, Table 1 exemplifies, in a non-limiting manner, pairs of polar solvent and the hydrophobic carrier, as provided in the present invention. The examples of the previous paragraph are incorporated herein by reference.

Exemplary Polar Solvent/ Exemplary Polar Hydrophobic Hydrophobic Solvent Carrier Carrier Ratio Comment A short chain A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced alcohol, selected carrier, selected 1:4 and about delivery of an active from ethanol, from mineral oil, 4:1. agent, while conserving propanol, petrolatum, isopropyl skin barrier isopropanol, myristate, isopropyl To provide enhanced butanol palmytate, a skin barrier build-up, triglyceride and which facilitates the silicone oil recovery of damaged skin. A short chain Ester of fatty acid Between about To provide enhanced alcohol, selected 1:4 and about delivery of an active from ethanol, 4:1. agent, while conserving propanol, skin barrier isopropanol, To provide enhanced butanol skin barrier build-up, which facilitates the recovery of damaged skin. A short chain Combination of at Between about To provide enhanced alcohol, selected least one triglyceride 1:4 and about delivery of an active from ethanol, and at least one 4:1. agent, while conserving propanol, ester of a fatty acid skin barrier isopropanol, To provide enhanced butanol skin barrier build-up, which facilitates the recovery of damaged skin. A polyethylene A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced glycol PEG carrier, selected 1:1 and about delivery of an active from mineral oil, 4:1 agent, while conserving petrolatum, isopropyl skin barrier myristate, isopropyl palmytate, a triglyceride and silicone oil Dimethyl A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced isosorbide carrier, selected 1:1 and about delivery of an active from mineral oil, 4:1 agent, while conserving petrolatum, isopropyl skin barrier myristate, isopropyl To provide enhanced palmytate, a skin barrier build-up, triglyceride and which facilitates the silicone oil recovery of damaged skin. Dimethyl A triglyceride Between about To provide increased isosorbide 4:1 and about solubility of a drug, 1:4, enhanced delivery and skin barrier build-up Dimethyl Capric-caprylic Between about To provide increased isosorbide triglyceride 1:4 and about solubility of a drug, 1:1 enhanced delivery and skin barrier build-up Dimethyl Ester of fatty acid Between about To provide increased isosorbide 1:4 and about solubility of a drug, 1:1 enhanced delivery and skin barrier build-up Dimethyl Combination of at Between about To provide increased isosorbide least one triglyceride 1:4 and about solubility of a drug, and at least one 1:1 enhanced delivery and ester of a fatty acid skin barrier build-up A diol selected A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced from the group of carrier, selected 4:1 and about skin barrier build-up propylene glycol, from mineral oil, 1:4 butanediol, petrolatum, isopropyl hexanediol, myristate, isopropyl octanediol, palmytate, a propanediol, triglyceride and diethylene glycol, silicone oil triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol and dibutylene glycol. A triol (a A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced compound that carrier, selected 4:1 and about skin barrier build-up contains three from mineral oil, 1:4 hydroxy groups in petrolatum, isopropyl its molecular myristate, isopropyl structure), such as palmytate, a glycerin and 1,2,6- triglyceride Hexanetriol. An alpha hydroxy A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced acids, such as carrier, selected 4:1 and about skin barrier build-up lactic acid and from mineral oil, 1:4 glycolic acid petrolatum, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmytate, a triglyceride DMSO A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced carrier, selected 4:1 and about skin barrier build-up from mineral oil, 1:4, petrolatum, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmytate, a triglyceride A pyrrolidone, A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced such as N-methyl- carrier, selected 4:1 and about skin barrier build-up 2-pyrrolidone and from mineral oil, 1:4 1-methyl-2- petrolatum, isopropyl pyrrolidinone myristate, isopropyl palmytate, a triglyceride A combination of A hydrophobic Between about To provide enhanced at least two polar carrier, selected 1:4 and about delivery of an active solvents from mineral oil, 4:1. agent, while conserving petrolatum, isopropyl skin barrier myristate, isopropyl To provide enhanced palmytate, a skin barrier build-up, triglyceride and which facilitates the silicone oil recovery of damaged skin. A combination of Ester of fatty acid Between about To provide increased at least two polar 1:4 and about solubility of a drug, solvents 1:1 enhanced delivery and skin barrier build-up A combination of Combination of at Between about To provide increased at least two polar least one triglyceride 1:4 and about solubility of a drug, solvents and at least one 1:1 enhanced delivery and ester of a fatty acid skin barrier build-up

In one or more embodiments, the polar solvent consists of a single polar solvent. Yet, in additional embodiments, the polar solvent consists of a combination of two or more polar solvents.

In one or more embodiments, the hydrophobic carrier consists of a single polar solvent. Yet, in additional embodiments, the hydrophobic carrier consists of a combination of two or more hydrophobic carriers.

In order to derive a composition which is readily foamable upon release from a pressurized container, additional components are required, as provided hereinbelow.

Surface Active Agent

Surface-active agents (also termed “surfactants”) include any agent linking oil and water in the composition, in the form of emulsion. A surfactant's hydrophilic/lipophilic balance (HLB) describes the emulsifier's affinity toward water or oil. The HLB scale ranges from 1 (totally lipophilic) to 20 (totally hydrophilic), with 10 representing an equal balance of both characteristics. Lipophilic emulsifiers form water-in-oil (w/o) emulsions; hydrophilic surfactants form oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions. The HLB of a blend of two emulsifiers equals the weight fraction of emulsifier A times its HLB value plus the weight fraction of emulsifier B times its HLB value (weighted average). The surface-active agent according to the present invention has an HLB value, suitable for stabilizing an emulsion comprising the aqueous phase and the organic carrier of the composition.

According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the surface-active agent has a hydrophilic lipophilic balance (HLB) between about 9 and about 14, which is the required HLB (the HLB required to stabilize an O/W emulsion of a given oil) of most oils and hydrophobic solvents. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the composition contains a single surface active agent having an HLB value between about 9 and about 14 (e.g., about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13 and about 14), and in one or more embodiments, the composition contains more than one surface active agent and the weighted average of their HLB values is between about 9 and about 14 (e.g. about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13 and about 14). Yet, in other embodiments, when a water-in-oil emulsion is desirable, the composition contains one or more surface-active agents, having an HLB value between about 2 and about 9 (e.g., about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, about 7, about 8 and about 9).

The surface-active agent is selected from anionic, cationic, nonionic, zwitterionic, amphoteric and ampholytic surfactants, as well as mixtures of these surfactants. Such surfactants are well known to those skilled in the therapeutic and cosmetic formulation art. Non-limiting examples of possible surfactants include polysorbates, such as polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate (Tween 60) and poly(oxyethylene) (20) sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80); poly(oxyethylene) (POE) fatty acid esters, such as Myrj 45, Myrj 49, Myrj 52 and Myrj 59; poly(oxyethylene) alkylyl ethers, such as poly(oxyethylene) cetyl ether, poly(oxyethylene) palmityl ether, polyethylene oxide hexadecyl ether, polyethylene glycol cetyl ether, brij 38, brij 52, brij 56 and brij W1; sucrose esters, partial esters of sorbitol and its anhydrides, such as sorbitan monolaurate and sorbitan monolaurate; mono or diglycerides, isoceteth-20, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, sodium methyl oleoyl taurate, sodium lauryl sulfate, triethanolamine lauryl sulfate and betaines.

In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the surface-active agent includes a non-ionic surfactant. Ionic surfactants are known to be irritants. Therefore, non-ionic surfactants are preferred in applications including sensitive tissue such as found in most mucosal tissues, especially when they are infected or inflamed. We have surprisingly found that non-ionic surfactants alone provide foams of excellent quality, i.e. a score of “E” according to the grading scale discussed herein below.

In one or more embodiments, the surface-active agent includes a mixture of a non-ionic surfactant and an ionic surfactant in a ratio in the range of about 100:1 to about 6:1. In one or more embodiments, the non-ionic to ionic surfactant ratio is greater than about 6:1, or greater than about 8:1; or greater than about 14:1, or greater than about 16:1, or greater than about 20:1.

In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a combination of a non-ionic surfactant and an ionic surfactant (such as sodium lauryl sulphate and cocamidopropylbetaine) is employed, at a ratio of between 1:1 and 20:1, for example, about 1:1, about 4:1, about 8:1, about 12:1, about 16:1 and about 20:1 or at a ratio of 4:1 to 10:1, for example, about 4:1, about 6:1, about 8:1 and about 10:1. The resultant foam has a low specific gravity, e.g., less than 0.1 g/ml.

Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, a combination of an non-ionic surfactant having HLB of less than about 9 and an non-ionic surfactant having HLB of equal or more than about 9 is employed, at a ratio of between about 1:8 and about 8:1, or at a ratio of about 4:1 to about 1:4, wherein the HLB of the combination of emulsifiers is between about 9 and about 14.

In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the surface-active agent includes mono-, di- and tri-esters of sucrose with fatty acids (sucrose esters), prepared from sucrose and esters of fatty acids or by extraction from sucro-glycerides. Suitable sucrose esters include those having high monoester content, which have higher HLB values.

The total surface-active agent is in the range of about 0.1 to about 5% of the composition, and is occasionally less than about 2% or less than about 1%.

Polymeric Agent

In one or more embodiments, the foamable composition contains a polymeric agent. The polymeric agent serves to stabilize the foam composition and to control drug residence in the target organ. Exemplary polymeric agents are classified below in a non-limiting manner. In certain cases, a given polymer can belong to more than one of the classes provided below.

In one or more embodiments, the composition of the present invention includes a gelling agent. A gelling agent controls the residence of a therapeutic composition in the target site of treatment by increasing the viscosity of the composition, thereby limiting the rate of its clearance from the site. Many gelling agents are known in the art to possess mucoadhesive properties.

The gelling agent can be a natural gelling agent, a synthetic gelling agent and an inorganic gelling agent. Exemplary gelling agents that can be used in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention include, for example, naturally-occurring polymeric materials, such as locust bean gum, sodium alginate, sodium caseinate, egg albumin, gelatin agar, carrageenin gum, sodium alginate, xanthan gum, quince seed extract, tragacanth gum, guar gum, starch, chemically modified starches and the like, semi-synthetic polymeric materials such as cellulose ethers (e.g. hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, methylhydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, hydroxyethylcarboxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose and carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose), guar gum, hydroxypropyl guar gum, soluble starch, cationic celluloses, cationic guars, and the like, and synthetic polymeric materials, such as carboxyvinyl polymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid polymers, polymethacrylic acid polymers, polyvinyl acetate polymers, polyvinyl chloride polymers, polyvinylidene chloride polymers and the like. Mixtures of the above compounds are also contemplated.

Further exemplary gelling agents include the acrylic acid/ethyl acrylate copolymers and the carboxyvinyl polymers. Non-limiting examples include Carbopol® 934, Carbopol® 940, Carbopol® 950, Carbopol® 980, Carbopol® 951 and Carbopol® 981.

Yet, in other embodiments, the gelling agent includes inorganic gelling agents, such as silicone dioxide (fumed silica).

Mucoadhesive/bioadhesion has been defined as the attachment of synthetic or biological macromolecules to a biological tissue. Mucoadhesive agents are a class of polymeric biomaterials that exhibit the basic characteristic of a hydrogel, i.e. swell by absorbing water and interacting by means of adhesion with the mucous that covers epithelia. Compositions of the present invention may contain a mucoadhesive macromolecule or polymer in an amount sufficient to confer bioadhesive properties. The bioadhesive macromolecule enhances the delivery of biologically active agents on or through the target surface. The mucoadhesive macromolecule may be selected from acidic synthetic polymers, preferably having an acidic group per four repeating or monomeric subunit moieties, such as poly(acrylic)- and/or poly(methacrylic) acid (e.g., Carbopol®, Carbomer®), poly(methylvinyl ether/maleic anhydride) copolymer, and their mixtures and copolymers; acidic synthetically modified natural polymers, such as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC); neutral synthetically modified natural polymers, such as (hydroxypropyl)methylcellulose; basic amine-bearing polymers such as chitosan; acidic polymers obtainable from natural sources, such as alginic acid, hyaluronic acid, pectin, gum tragacanth, and karaya gum; and neutral synthetic polymers, such as polyvinyl alcohol or their mixtures. An additional group of mucoadhesive polymers includes natural and chemically modified cyclodextrin, especially hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin. Such polymers may be present as free acids, bases, or salts, usually in a final concentration of about 0.01% to about 0.5% by weight. Many mucoadhesive agents are known in the art to also possess gelling properties.

In one or more embodiments, the polymeric agent contains a film-forming component. The film-forming component may include a water-insoluble alkyl cellulose or hydroxyalkyl cellulose. Exemplary alkyl cellulose or hydroxyalkyl cellulose polymers include ethyl cellulose, propyl cellulose, butyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxybutyl cellulose, and ethylhydroxyethyl cellulose, alone or in combination. In addition, a plasticizer or a cross-linking agent may be used to modify the polymer's characteristics. For example, esters such as dibutyl or diethyl phthalate, amides such as diethyldiphenyl urea, vegetable oils, fatty acids and alcohols such as oleic and myristyl acid may be used in combination with the cellulose derivative.

In one or more embodiments, the polymeric agent includes a phase change polymer, which alters the composition behavior from fluid-like prior to administration to solid-like upon contact with the target mucosal surface. Such phase change results from external stimuli, such as changes in temperature or pH and exposure to specific ions (e.g., Ca²⁺). Non-limiting examples of phase change polymers include poly(N-isopropylamide) and Poloxamer 4070.

The polymeric agent is present in an amount in the range of about 0.01% to about 5.0% by weight of the foam composition. In one or more embodiments, it is typically less than about 1 wt % of the foamable composition.

Preferably, a therapeutically effective foam adjuvant is included in the foamable compositions of the present invention to increase the foaming capacity of surfactants and/or to stabilize the foam. In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the foam adjuvant agent includes fatty alcohols having 15 or more carbons in their carbon chain, such as cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol (or mixtures thereof). Other examples of fatty alcohols are arachidyl alcohol (C20), behenyl alcohol (C22), 1-triacontanol (C30), as well as alcohols with longer carbon chains (up to C50). Fatty alcohols, derived from beeswax and including a mixture of alcohols, a majority of which has at least 20 carbon atoms in their carbon chain, are especially well suited as foam adjuvant agents. The amount of the fatty alcohol required to support the foam system is inversely related to the length of its carbon chains. Foam adjuvants, as defined herein are also useful in facilitating improved spreadability and absorption of the composition.

In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the foam adjuvant agent includes fatty acids having 16 or more carbons in their carbon chain, such as hexadecanoic acid (C16) stearic acid (C18), arachidic acid (C20), behenic acid (C22), octacosanoic acid (C28), as well as fatty acids with longer carbon chains (up to C50), or mixtures thereof. As for fatty alcohols, the amount of fatty acids required to support the foam system is inversely related to the length of its carbon chain.

In one or more embodiments, a combination of a fatty acid and a fatty ester is employed.

Optionally, the carbon atom chain of the fatty alcohol or the fatty acid may have a double bond. A further class of foam adjuvant agent includes a branched fatty alcohol or fatty acid. The carbon chain of the fatty acid or fatty alcohol also can be substituted with a hydroxyl group, such as 12-hydroxy stearic acid.

A property of the fatty alcohols and fatty acids used in context of the composition of the present invention is related to their therapeutic properties per se. Long chain saturated and mono unsaturated fatty alcohols, e.g., stearyl alcohol, erucyl alcohol, arachidyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol (docosanol) have been reported to possess antiviral, antiinfective, antiproliferative and antiinflammatory properties (see, U.S. Pat. No. 4,874,794). Longer chain fatty alcohols, e.g., tetracosanol, hexacosanol, heptacosanol, octacosanol, triacontanol, etc., are also known for their metabolism modifying properties and tissue energizing properties. Long chain fatty acids have also been reported to possess anti-infective characteristics.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is encapsulated in particles, microparticles, nanoparticles, microcapsules, spheres, microspheres, nanocapsules, nanospheres, liposomes, niosomes, polymer matrix, nanocrystals or microsponges.

The composition of the present invention may further optionally include a variety of formulation excipients, which are added in order to fine-tune the consistency of the formulation, protect the formulation components from degradation and oxidation and modify their consistency. Such excipients may be selected, for example, from stabilizing agents, antioxidants, humectants, preservatives, colorant and odorant agents and other formulation components, used in the art of formulation.

Aerosol propellants are used to generate and administer the foamable composition as a foam. The total composition including propellant, foamable compositions and optional ingredients is referred to as the foamable carrier. The propellant makes up about 3% to about 25% (w/w) of the foamable carrier or composition. Examples of suitable propellants include volatile hydrocarbons such as butane, propane, isobutane or mixtures thereof, and fluorocarbon gases.

Non-Flammable Stable Foam Compositions

Alcohol and organic solvents render foams inflammable. It has been surprisingly discovered that fluorohydrocarbon propellants, other than chloro-fluoro carbons (CMCs), which are non-ozone-depleting propellants, are particularly useful in the production of a non-flammable foamable composition. A test according to European Standard prEN 14851, titled “Aerosol containers—Aerosol foam flammability test” revealed that compositions containing an organic carrier that contains a hydrophobic organic carrier and/or a polar solvent, which are detected as inflammable when a hydrocarbon propellant is used, become non-flammable, while the propellant is an HFC propellant.

Such propellants include, but are not limited to, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) propellants, which contain no chlorine atoms, and as such, fall completely outside concerns about stratospheric ozone destruction by chlorofluorocarbons or other chlorinated hydrocarbons. Exemplary non-flammable propellants according to this aspect of the invention include propellants made by DuPont under the registered trademark Dymel, such as 1,1,1,2 tetrafluorethane (Dymel 134), and 1,1,1,2,3,3,3 heptafluoropropane (Dymel 227). HFCs possess Ozone Depletion Potential of 0.00 and thus, they are allowed for use as propellant in aerosol products.

Notably, the stability of foamable emulsions including HFC as the propellant is improved in comparison with the same composition made with a hydrocarbon propellant.

Active Agents

It is to be understood that the active agents useful herein can in some instances provide more than one benefit or operate via more than one mode of action. Therefore, classifications herein are made for the sake of convenience and are not intended to limit the active agent to that particular application or applications listed.

The composition of the present invention comprises an active agent that provides therapeutic or cosmetic activity.

Non-limiting examples of active agents include an anti-infective, an antibiotic, an antibacterial agent, an antifungal agent, an antiviral agent, an antiparasitic agent, a steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, an immunosuppressive agent, an immunomodulator, an immunoregulating agent, a hormonal agent, a steroid, a vasoactive agent, a vasoconstrictor, a vasodilator, vitamin A, a vitamin A derivative, a retinoid, vitamin B, a vitamin B derivative, vitamin C, a vitamin C derivative, vitamin D, a vitamin D derivative, vitamin E, a vitamin E derivative, vitamin F, a vitamin F derivative, vitamin K, a vitamin K derivative, a wound healing agent, a burn healing agent, a disinfectant, an anesthetic, an antiallergic agent, an alpha hydroxyl acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, a protein, a peptide, a neuropeptide, an allergen, an immunogenic substance, a haptene, an oxidizing agent, an antioxidant, a dicarboxylic acid, azelaic acid, sebacic acid, adipic acid, fumaric acid, an insecticide, an antiproliferative agent, an anticancer agent, a photodynamic therapy agent, an anti-wrinkle agent, a radical scavenger, a metal oxide (e.g., titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, zirconium oxide, iron oxide), silicone oxide, talc, an anti-acne agent, a skin whitening agent, a self tanning agent, an anti-cellulite agent, a skin protective agent, a masking agent, an anti-wart agent, a refatting agent, a lubricating agent and mixtures thereof at any proportion. The concentration of the active agent can be adapted to exert a therapeutic effect on a disease when applied to an afflicted area. Various different therapeutic effects of the herbs and their extracts are, for example, illustrated in the above-mentioned references.

In one or more embodiments the active agent may be an extract or tincture of one or more beneficial agents that have beneficial properties, for example, when applied to the skin, a body surface, a body cavity or a mucosal surface. The extract can be, for example, alcoholic, hydroalcoholic, propylene glycol, glycerine, dry, press, cold, hot, liquid carbon dioxide, oil or other process known in the art. The extract or tincture may comprise of substances of animal, plant, (such as herb, fruit, vegetable) mineral or other origin. Nonlimiting examples are proteins, polypeptides, sugars, hyularonic acid, and coal tar. Herbal extracts may be from any known therapeutic herb, as listed for example in Herbal Medicines, London: Pharmaceutical Press Electronic Version 2006 or in the American Herbal Association electronic publication Herbal gram or in German Commission E., such as, angelica, calendula, celery, coltsfoot, comfrey, dandelion, jamaica dogwood, kava, marshmallow, prickly ash, northern prickly ash, southern senna, valerian, agrimony, aloe vera, alfalfa, artichoke, avens, bayberry, bloodroot, blue flag, bogbean, boldo, boneset, broom, buchu, burdock, burnet, calamus, calendula, cascara, centaury, cereus, chamomile, german chamomile, roman chamomile, cinnamon, clivers, cohosh, black, cohosh, blue, cola, corn silk, couchgrass, cowslip, damiana, devil's claw, drosera, echinacea, elder, elecampane, euphorbia, eyebright, figwort, frangula, fucus, fumitory, garlic, golden seal, gravel root, ground ivy, guaiacum, hawthorn, holy thistle, hops, horehound black, horehound white, horse chestnut hydrangea, ispaghula, juniper, lady's lipper, liferoot, lime flower, liquorice, lobelia, maté, meadowsweet, mistletoe, motherwort, myrrh, nettle, parsley, parsley piert, passionflower, pennyroyal, pilewort, plantain, pleurisy root, pokeroot, poplar, pulsatilla, queen's delight, raspberry, red clover, rosemary, sage, sarsaparilla, sassafras, scullcap, senega, shepherd's purse, skunk cabbage, slippery elm, squill, St. john's wort, stone root, tansy, thyme, uva-ursi, vervain, wild carrot, wild lettuce, willow, witch hazel, yarrow and yellow dock.

When the extract is dissolved in a polar solvent, such as a short chain alcohol (e.g., ethanol and isopropyl alcohol), propylene glycol and glycerin, then the polar solvent of the extract can also comprise part or all of the “polar solvent” component of the foamable composition, as specified throughout this specification and likewise the polar solvent of the foamable composition can also comprise as part or all of the “polar solvent” component of the extract.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an anti-infective agent, selected from an antibiotic agent, an antibacterial agent, an anti-fungal agent, an anti-viral agent and an anti-parasite agent.

The antibacterial drug can be active against gram positive and gram-negative bacteria, protozoa, aerobic bacteria and unaerobic ones.

In one or more embodiments, the antibiotic agent is selected from the classes consisting of beta-lactam antibiotics, synthetic and semi-synthetic penicillins, aminoglycosides, ansa-type antibiotics, anthraquinones, antibiotic azoles, antibiotic glycopeptides, macrolides, antibiotic nucleosides, antibiotic peptides, antibiotic polyenes, antibiotic polyethers, quinolones, fluoroquinolnes, antibiotic steroids, cyclosporines, sulfonamides, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, dicarboxylic acids, such as azelaic acid, salicylates, antibiotic metals, oxidizing agents, substances that release free radicals and/or active oxygen, cationic antimicrobial agents, quaternary ammonium compounds, biguanides, triguanides, bisbiguanides and analogs and polymers thereof and naturally occurring antibiotic compounds.

Additional antibacterial agents, which are non-specific, include strong oxidants and free radical liberating compounds, such as hydrogen peroxide, bleaching agents (e.g., sodium, calcium or magnesium hypochloride and the like), iodine, chlorohexidine and benzoyl peroxide.

The antifungal agent can be an azole compound. Exemplary azole compounds include azoles selected from the group consisting of azoles, diazoles, triazoles, miconazole, ketoconazole, clotrimazole, econazole, mebendazole, bifonazole, butoconazole, fenticonazole, isoconazole, oxiconazole, sertaconazole, sulconazole, thiabendazole, tiaconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, ravuconazole and posaconazole.

Additional exemplary antifungal agents include griseofulvin, ciclopirox, amorolfine, terbinafine, Amphotericin B, potassium iodide, flucytosine (5FC) and any combination thereof at a therapeutically effective concentration.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an anti-viral agent. Any known antiviral agent, in a therapeutically effective concentration, can be incorporated in the foam composition of the present invention. Exemplary antiviral agents include, but not limited to, acyclovir, famciclovir, gancyclovir, valganciclovir and abacavir.

In another embodiment according to the present invention, the active agent is an anti-inflammatory or anti-allergic agent. Anti-inflammatory agents can be selected from the group of corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antihistamines, immunosuppressant agents, immunomodulators; and any combination thereof at a therapeutically effective concentration.

Non-limiting examples of corticosteroids include hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate, desonide, betamethasone valerate, clobetasone-17-butyrate, flucinonide, fluocinolone acetonide, alcometasone dipropionate, mometasone furoate, prednicarbate, triamcinolone acetonide, betamethasone-17-benzoate, methylprednisolone aceponate, betamethasone dipropionate, halcinonide, triamcinolone acetonide, halobetasol and clobetasol-17-propionate.

A second class of anti-inflammatory agents, which is useful in the foam of the present invention, includes the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs). The variety of compounds encompassed by this group is well known to those skilled in the art. Specific non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents useful in the composition invention include, but are not limited to, oxicams, such as piroxicam, isoxicam, tenoxicam, sudoxicam; salicylates, such as salicylic acid, ethyl salicylate, methyl salycilate, aspirin, disalcid, benorylate, trilisate, safapryn, solprin, diflunisal, and fendosal; scetic acid derivatives, such as diclofenac, fenclofenac, indomethacin, sulindac, tolmetin, isoxepac, furofenac, tiopinac, zidometacin, acematacin, fentiazac, zomepirac, clindanac, oxepinac, felbinac, and ketorolac; fenamates, such as mefenamic, meclofenamic, flufenamic, niflumic, and tolfenamic acids; propionic acid derivatives, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, benoxaprofen, flurbiprofen, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, fenbufen, indopropfen, pirprofen, carprofen, oxaprozin, pranoprofen, miroprofen, tioxaprofen, suprofen, alminoprofen, and tiaprofenic; and pyrazoles, such as phenylbutazone, oxyphenbutazone, feprazone, azapropazone, and trimethazone.

Any further steroidal and nonsteroidal compounds, having the capacity to prevent, alleviate the symptoms of, treat or cure inflammation processes, are generally included, as possible anti-inflammatory agents, according to the present invention.

Antiallergic active agents include antihistamine compounds, including, in a non limiting manner, thylenediamines, such as pyrilamine (mepyramine), antazoline and methapyrilene; tripelennamine phenothiazines, such as promethazine, methdilazine and trimeprazine; ethanolamines, such as diphenhydramine, bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenylpyraline, doxylamine and phenyltoxamine; piperazines, such as cyclizine, buclizine, chlorcyclizine, hydroxyzine, meclizine and thiethylperazine; alkylamines, such as brompheniramine, pyrrobutamin, desbrompheniramine, tripolidine, dexchlorpherniramine, chlorpheniramine; dimethindene and pheniramine; and piperidines, such as cyproheptadine and azatadine. These active agents, as well as additional antihistamines can also be incorporated in the composition of the present invention.

The composition of the present invention may also comprise an anti-inflammatory or antiallergic agent, wherein said agent reduces the occurrence of pro-inflammatory cytokines or inhibits the effect of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Immunosuppressant agents, immunoregulating agents and immunomodulators are chemically or biologically derived agents that modify the immune response or the functioning of the immune system (as by the stimulation of antibody formation or the inhibition of white blood cell activity). Immunosuppressant agents and immunomodulators include, among other options, cyclic peptides, such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, tresperimus, pimecrolimus, sirolimus (rapamycin), verolimus, laflunimus, laquinimod and imiquimod.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is a topical anesthetic. Examples of topical anesthetic drugs include, but not limited to, benzocaine, lidocaine, bupivacaine, chlorprocaine, dibucaine, etidocaine, mepivacaine, tetracaine, dyclonine, hexylcaine, procaine, cocaine, ketamine, pramoxine, and phenol. Mixtures of such anesthetic agents may be synergistically beneficial.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is a “keratolytically active agent.” The term “keratolytically active agent” refers herein to a compound which loosens and removes the stratum corneum of the skin, or alters the structure of the keratin layers of the skin.

Suitable keratolytically active agents include phenol and substituted phenolic compounds. Such compounds are known to dissolve and loosen the intracellular matrix of the hyperkeratinized tissue. Dihydroxy benzene and derivatives thereof have been recognized as potent keratolytic agents. Resorcinol (m-dihydroxybenzene) and derivatives thereof are used in anti-acne preparations. Hydroquinone (p-dihydroxybenzene), besides its anti-pigmentation properties, is also keratolytic.

Vitamin A and its derivatives, such as retinoic acid, isoretinoic acid, retinol and retinal are another preferred class of keratolytically active agents.

Another group of keratolytically active agents include alpha-hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid and glycolic acid and their respective salts and derivatives; and beta-hydroxy acids, such as Salicylic acid (o-hydroxybenzoic acid) and its salts and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives, which typically possess anti-inflammatory, as well as keratolytic, activity. Yet, another class of preferred keratolytically active agents includes urea and its derivatives.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is a retinoid. Retinoids include, for example, retinol, retinal, all-trans retinoic acid and derivatives, isomers and analogs thereof. Etretinate, actiretin, isotretinoin, adapalene and tazarotene are further examples of said retinoid isomers and analogs.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an insecticide or an insect repellent agent.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an anti cancer agent.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is a photodynamic therapy (PDT) agent. By way of example, such PDT agents can be modified porphyrins, chlorins, bacteriochlorins, phthalocyanines, naphthalocyanines, pheophorbides, purpurins, m-THPC, mono-L-aspartyl chlorin e6, bacteriochlorins, phthalocyanines, benzoporphyrin derivatives, as well as photosensitizer precursors, such as aminolevulinic acid (ALA).

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an agent useful in the treatment of burns, wounds, cuts and ulcers. The foam compositions of the present invention may comprise a combination of anti-infective agents (against bacteria, fungi and/or viruses), anti-inflammatory agents (steroidal and/or NSAIDs) and pain relieving components.

The foam compositions of the present invention, with or without further active ingredients, are suitable for the further application as “cosmeceutical” preparation (cosmetic products with therapeutic benefit), to treat “cosmetic” skin disorders, such as aging skin, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation (melasma, chloasma, freckles, etc.), scaly skin and other skin undesirable properties.

Any cosmetically active agent is considered an active agent in the context of the present invention. The CTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Handbook describes a wide variety of non-limiting cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients commonly used in the skin care industry, which are suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention. Examples of these ingredient classes include: abrasives, absorbents, aesthetic components such as fragrances, pigments, colorings/colorants, essential oils, astringents, etc. (e.g., clove oil, menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, eugenol, menthyl lactate, witch hazel distillate), anti-acne agents, anti-caking agents, antifoaming agents, anti-microbial agents (e.g., iodopropyl butylcarbamate), antioxidants, binders, biological additives, buffering agents, bulking agents, chelating agents, chemical additives, colorants, cosmetic astringents, cosmetic biocides, denaturants, drug astringents, external analgesics, film formers or materials, e.g., polymers, for aiding the film-forming properties and substantivity of the composition (e.g., copolymer of eicosene and vinyl pyrrolidone), opacifying agents, pH adjusters, propellants, reducing agents, sequestrants, skin bleaching and lightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone, kojic acid, ascorbic acid, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl glucosamine), skin-conditioning agents (e.g., humectants, including miscellaneous and occlusive), skin soothing and/or healing agents (e.g., panthenol and derivatives (e.g., ethyl panthenol), aloe vera, pantothenic acid and its derivatives, allantoin, bisabolol, and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate), skin treating agents, and vitamins and derivatives thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an agent useful in the treatment of acne, wrinkles and scars. Examples of useful anti-acne actives include resorcinol, sulfur, salicylic acid and salicylates, alpha-hydroxy acids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, benzoyl peroxide, retinoic acid, isoretinoic acid and other retinoid compounds, adapalene, tazarotene, azelaic acid and azelaic acid derivatives, antibiotic agents, such as erythromycin and clyndamycin, zinc salts and complexes, and combinations thereof, in a therapeutically effective concentration. Exemplary anti-wrinkle/anti-atrophy active agents suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention include sulfur-containing D and L amino acids and their derivatives and salts, particularly the N-acetyl derivatives; thiols; hydroxy acids (e.g., alpha-hydroxy acids such as lactic acid and glycolic acid and their derivatives and salts; or beta-hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid and salicylic acid salts and derivatives), urea, hyaluronic acid, phytic acid, lipoic acid; lysophosphatidic acid, skin peel agents (e.g., phenol, resorcinol and the like), vitamin B3 compounds (e.g., niacinamide, nicotinic acid and nicotinic acid salts and esters, including non-vasodilating esters of nicotinic acid (such as tocopheryl nicotinate), nicotinyl amino acids, nicotinyl alcohol esters of carboxylic acids, nicotinic acid N-oxide and niacinamide N-oxide), vitamin B5 and retinoids (e.g., retinol, retinal, retinoic acid, retinyl acetate, retinyl palmitate, retinyl ascorbate). In the case of dry, scaly skin (xerosis) and ichthyosis such agents can alleviate the symptoms by temporary relief of itching associated with these conditions.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is an anti-oxidant or a radical scavenger. Anti-oxidants/radical scavengers such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and its salts, ascorbyl esters of fatty acids, ascorbic acid derivatives (e.g., magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl sorbate), tocopherol (vitamin E), tocopherol sorbate, tocopherol acetate, other esters of tocopherol, butylated hydroxy benzoic acids and their salts, 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid, gallic acid and its alkyl esters, especially propyl gallate, uric acid and its salts and alkyl esters, sorbic acid and its salts, lipoic acid, amines (e.g., N,N-diethylhydroxylamine, amino-guanidine), sulfhydryl compounds (e.g., glutathione), dihydroxy fumaric acid and its salts, lycine pidolate, arginine pilolate, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, bioflavonoids, curcumin, lysine, methionine, proline, superoxide dismutase, silymarin, tea extracts, grape skin/seed extracts, melanin, and rosemary extracts may be used.

It is further pointed out that polyunsaturated fatty acids, containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (e.g., linoleic and linolenic acid, gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)) are beneficial in the treatment of psoriasis and other skin inflammation conditions. Likewise, emollients and silicone oils exert moisture-retaining and skin protective effects on the skin. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, a skin protective foam is provided, wherein the hydrophobic carrier comprises in full or in part, an organic liquid selected from the group consisting of emollients, silicone oil and oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids.

In one or more embodiments, the active agent is a self-tanning active Agent, such as dihydroxyacetone.

According to another embodiment, the active agent comprises solid matter or particulate matter, i.e., material that is not soluble in the liquid carrier composition of the foamable composition. For definition purposes, solid matter shall mean material that is not soluble in the foamable composition more than 10% of the concentration intended to be included in said foamable composition. By way of example, the following classes of solid matter substances are presented: metallic oxides, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, zirconium oxide, iron oxide; silicon containing materials such as silicone oxide and talc; carbon, for example in the form of amorphous carbon or graphite; insoluble oxidizing agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, calcium and magnesium hypochlorite; metallic Silver; cosmetic scrub materials, including, for example meals of strawberry seeds, raspberry seeds, apricot seeds, sweet almond, cranberry seeds; and pigments.

According to certain embodiments, the active agent is selected from the group of solvent, surface active agent, foam adjuvant and gelling agent, which are, on a case-by-case basis, known to possess a therapeutic benefit.

In one or more embodiments at least one or at least two active agents are included in the composition.

Composition and Foam Physical Characteristics and Advantages

A pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition manufactured using the foamable carrier of the present invention is very easy to use. When applied onto the afflicted body surface of mammals, i.e., humans or animals, it is in a foam state, allowing free application without spillage. Upon further application of a mechanical force, e.g., by rubbing the composition onto the body surface, it freely spreads on the surface and is rapidly absorbed.

The foamable composition can be in the state of (1) solutions; (2) a readily dispersable suspension; or (3) an emulsion. It is stable, having an acceptable shelf life of a year, or at least two years at ambient temperature, as revealed in accelerated stability tests. Polar solvents, hydrophobic carriers and propellants, which are a mixture of low molecular weight hydrocarbons, tend to impair the stability of emulsions and to interfere with the formation of a stable foam upon release from a pressurized container. It has been observed, however, that the foamable compositions according to the present invention are surprisingly stable. Following accelerated stability studies, they demonstrate desirable texture; they form fine bubble structures that do not break immediately upon contact with a surface, spread easily on the treated area and absorb quickly.

The composition should also be free flowing, to allow it to flow through the aperture of the container, e.g., and aerosol container, and create an acceptable foam. Compositions containing semi-solid hydrophobic solvents, e.g., white petrolatum, as the main ingredients of the oil phase of the emulsion, exhibit high viscosity and poor flowability and are inappropriate candidates for a foamable composition.

Foam quality can be graded as follows:

Grade E (excellent): very rich and creamy in appearance, does not show any bubble structure or shows a very fine (small) bubble structure; does not rapidly become dull; upon spreading on the skin, the foam retains the creaminess property and does not appear watery.

Grade G (good): rich and creamy in appearance, very small bubble size, “dulls” more rapidly than an excellent foam, retains creaminess upon spreading on the skin, and does not become watery.

Grade FG (fairly good): a moderate amount of creaminess noticeable, bubble structure is noticeable; upon spreading on the skin the product dulls rapidly and becomes somewhat lower in apparent viscosity.

Grade F (fair): very little creaminess noticeable, larger bubble structure than a “fairly good” foam, upon spreading on the skin it becomes thin in appearance and watery.

Grade P (poor): no creaminess noticeable, large bubble structure, and when spread on the skin it becomes very thin and watery in appearance.

Grade VP (very poor): dry foam, large very dull bubbles, difficult to spread on the skin.

Topically administrable foams are typically of quality grade E or G, when released from the aerosol container. Smaller bubbles are indicative of more stable foam, which does not collapse spontaneously immediately upon discharge from the container. The finer foam structure looks and feels smoother, thus increasing its usability and appeal.

As a further aspect of the foam is breakability. The breakable foam is thermally stable, yet breaks under sheer force. Sheer-force breakability of the foam is clearly advantageous over thermally induced breakability. Thermally sensitive foams immediately collapse upon exposure to skin temperature and, therefore, cannot be applied on the hand and afterwards delivered to the afflicted area.

The foam of the present invention has several advantages, when compared with hydroalcoholic foam compositions, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,126,920 and 5,783,202:

-   -   (1) Breakability. The foam of the present invention is thermally         stable. Unlike hydroalcoholic foam compositions of the prior         art, the foam of the present invention is not “quick breaking”,         i.e., it does not readily collapse upon exposure to body         temperature environment. Sheer-force breakability of the foam is         clearly advantageous over thermally induced breakability, since         it allows comfortable application and well directed         administration to the target area.     -   (2) Skin drying and skin barrier function. Polar solvents known         to dry the skin and impair the integrity of the skin barrier. By         contrast, combining a polar solvent and a hydrophobic carrier,         as described herein, unwanted skin barrier damage is reduced, as         demonstrated in tran-epidermal water loss measurements.     -   (3) Irritability. Due to the improvement in skin barrier         function, skin irritability is corrected.

In terms of usability, the foamable composition is most advantageous, as revealed by clinical trials:

(i) Ease of application.

-   -   When foam is released it expands and allows easy spreading on         the target area. This advantage is particularly meaningful in         regards to the treatment of large skin surfaces.     -   Upon application, the foam readily spreads and absorbs into the         skin.

(ii) The Foam is Drip-Free

-   -   The foam is not liquid and therefore does not leak when applied.     -   This allows precise application, without the product being         spread on clothes or other parts of the body.

Another property of the foam is specific gravity, as measured upon release from the aerosol can. Typically, foams have specific gravity of less than 0.12 g/mL; or less than 0.12 g/mL; or less than 0.08 g/mL, depending on their composition and on the propellant concentration.

For the purpose of the specification the external limits of the various ranges given are approximate as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Therefore, for the purpose of interpreting the outer limits of the range the limits shall be deemed to include up to a 20% leeway outside the range, preferably a 10% leeway.

Fields of Applications

According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the foamable carrier and the foamable pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition of the present invention are intended for administration to an animal or a human subject. In one or more embodiments, the composition is intended to treat the skin, a body surface, a body cavity or a mucosal surface, e.g., the mucosa of the nose, mouth, eye, ear, respiratory system, vagina or rectum.

By including an appropriate active agent in the compositions of the present invention, the composition are useful in treating a patient having any one of a variety of dermatological disorders, which include inflammation as one or their etiological factors (also termed “dermatoses”), such as classified in a non-limiting exemplary manner according to the following groups:

Dermatitis including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, chronic dermatitis of the hands and feet, generalized exfoliative dermatitis, stasis dermatitis; lichen simplex chronicus; diaper rash; Bacterial infections including cellulitis, acute lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, erysipelas, cutaneous abscesses, necrotizing subcutaneous infections, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, folliculitis, furuncles, hidradenitis suppurativa, carbuncles, paronychial infections, and erythrasma;

Fungal Infections including dermatophyte infections, yeast Infections; parasitic Infections including scabies, pediculosis, creeping eruption;

Viral Infections;

Disorders of hair follicles and sebaceous glands including acne, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, hypertrichosis (hirsutism), alopecia, including male pattern baldness, alopecia greata, alopecia universalis and alopecia totalis; pseudofolliculitis barbae, keratinous cyst;

Scaling papular diseases including psoriasis, pityriasis rosea, lichen planus, pityriasis rubra pilaris;

Benign tumors including moles, dysplastic nevi, skin tags, lipomas, angiomas, pyogenic granuloma, seborrheic keratoses, dermatofibroma, keratoacanthoma, keloid;

Malignant tumors including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, paget's disease of the nipples, kaposi's sarcoma;

Reactions to sunlight, including sunburn, chronic effects of sunlight, photosensitivity;

Bullous diseases including pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid, dermatitis herpetiformis, linear immunoglobulin A disease;

Pigmentation disorders including hypopigmentation such as vitiligo, albinism and postinflammatory hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation such as melasma (chloasma), drug-induced hyperpigmentation, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation;

Disorders of cornification including ichthyosis, keratosis pilaris, calluses and corns, actinic keratosis;

Pressure sores, open wounds, chronic wounds, open ulcers and burns;

Disorders of sweating; and

Inflammatory reactions including drug eruptions, toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, and granuloma annulare.

The same advantage is expected when the composition is topically applied to a body cavity or mucosal surfaces, including, but not limited to the cranial cavity, the thoratic cavity, the abdominal cavity, the venteral cavity, the vagina, the rectum and penile cavities, the urinary tract, the nasal cavity, the mouth, the eye, the ear the peritoneum, the large and small bowel, the caecum, bladder, and stomach, the cavity between the uterus and the fallopian tubes, the ovaries and other body areas, which may accept topically-applied products. The composition of the present invention is suitable to treat conditions of a body cavity and a mucosal membrane, such as post-surgical adhesions, chlamydia infection, gonorrhea infection, hepatitis B, herpes, HIV/AIDS, human papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, chancroid, granuloma Inguinale, lymphogranloma venereum, mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC), molluscum contagiosum, nongonococcal urethritis (NGU), trichomoniasis, vulvar disorders, vulvodynia, vulvar pain, yeast infection, vulvar dystrophy, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), contact dermatitis, pelvic inflammation, endometritis, salpingitis, oophoritis, genital cancer, cancer of the cervix, cancer of the vulva, cancer of the vagina, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, anal and rectal disease, anal abscess/fistula, anal cancer, anal fissure, anal warts, Crohn's disease, hemorrhoids, anal itch, pruritus ani, fecal incontinence, constipation, polyps of the colon and rectum.

According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the compositions are also useful in the therapy of non-dermatological disorders by providing transdermal or trans-mucosal delivery of an active agent that is effective against non-dermatological disorders.

In one or more embodiments, the disorder is a health abnormality that responds to treatment with a hormone. A typical example of such abnormality is sexual dysfunction in men and women whereby androgen therapy is successfully used to restore sexual function. Other non-limiting examples of disorders/medical indications that are in the scope of treatment with a hormone according to the present invention are androgen deficiency, estrogen deficiency, growth disorders, hypogonadism, cancer, vasomotor symptoms, menopausal disorders, vulvar and vaginal atrophy, urethritis, hypoestrogenism, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, uterine bleeding, Hirsutism, Virilization, ovarian tumors, hypothalamic pituitary unit diseases, testicular tumors, prostate cancer, hypopituitarism, Klinefelter's syndrome, testicular feminisation, orchitectomy, vasomotor symptoms (such as “hot flashes”) associated with the menopause, metabolic abnormalities and mood disturbances.

The following examples further exemplify the, foamable carrier, the pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions of the present invention, methods for preparing the same, and therapeutic uses of the compositions. The examples are for the purposes of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting of the invention. Many variations may be carried out by one of ordinary skill in the art and are contemplated within the full scope of the present invention.

A general procedure for preparing foamable compositions is set out in WO 2004/037225 which is incorporated herein by reference. Moreover, with respect to using one or more polar solvents, the polar solvent is added to the aqueous phase mixture in the course of preparation.

Example 1—Foamable Carrier, Containing Polar Solvent (Dimethyl Isosorbide) and Hydrophobic Carrier (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride)

Foam A Foam B Foam C % w/w % w/w % w/w Caprylic/capric triglyceride 30.0 19.0 40.0 (Hydrophobic carrier) Dimethyl isosorbide (Polar solvent) 20.0 20.0 20.0 Glyceryl oleate (Surfactant) 1.0 2.0 1.0 PPG-15 stearyl ether (Surfactant) 5.0 15.0 5.0 Lecithin (Surfactant) 20.0 20.0 10.0 Sorbitan stearate (Surfactant) — — 5.0 Sucrose stearate (Surfactant) 5.0 5.0 — PVP K-90 (Polymeric agent) 0.5 0.5 0.5 Preservative 0.5 0.5 0.5 Propane/Butane (Propellant) 8.00 8.00 8.00 Purified water to 100.00 to 100.00 to 100.00 Foam properties Foam quality Excellent Excellent Excellent Density 0.06 0.08 0.06 Formulation type Dispersion Homogeneity Homogenious Homogenious Homogenious upon mild upon mild upon mild shaking shaking shaking

Example 2—Foamable Carrier, Containing Polar Solvent (Dimethyl Isosorbide and Propylene Glycol) and Hydrophobic Carrier (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Isopropyl Myristate)

Foam D Foam E Foam F % w/w % w/w % w/w Caprylic/capric triglyceride 5.00 5.00 5.00 (Hydrophobic carrier) Isopropyl myristate (Hydrophobic 5.00 5.00 5.00 carrier) Dimethyl isosorbide (Polar solvent) 55.50 62.00 59.00 Propylene glycol (Polar solvent) 2.50 — — Glyceryl monostearate (Surfactant) — 1.00 1.00 Sorbitan monostearate (Surfactant) 8.00 5.00 8.00 Sucrose stearate (Surfactant) 5.00 5.00 8.00 Hydroxypropylcellulose (Polymeric — 0.50 — agent) Cetostearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) 8.00 8.00 — Stearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) — — 5.00 Oleyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) 2.50 — — Preservative 0.5 0.5 0.5 Propane/Butane (Propellant) 8.00 8.00 8.00 Purified water to 100.00 to 100.00 to 100.00 Foam properties Foam quality Excellent Excellent Good Density 0.13 0.23 0.21 Formulation type Solution Solution Solution Homogeneity Homogeneous Homogeneous Homogeneous upon mild upon mild upon mild shaking shaking shaking

Example 3—Foamable Carrier, in the Form of Emulsion, Containing Solar Solvent (Diethyl Isosorbide) and Hydrophobic Carrier (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride)

Foam G % w/w Caprylic/capric triglyceride (Hydrophobic carrier) 30.00 Dimethyl isosorbide (Polar solvent) 20.00 Glyceryl monostearate (Surfactant) 2.00 PPG-15 stearyl ether 3.00 Sorbitan stearate (Surfactant) 2.00 Xanthan gum (Polymeric agent) 0.15 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Polymeric agent) 0.15 Stearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) 1.00 Preservative 0.5 Propane/Butane (Propellant) 8.00 Purified water to 100.00 Foam properties Foam quality Excellent Density 0.12 Formulation type Emulsion Emulsion stability (centrifuge) Stable

Example 4—Foamable Carrier, in the Form of Emulsion, Containing Solar Solvent (Ethanol) and Hydrophobic Carrier (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride)

Foam H Foam I % w/w % w/w Mineral oil (Hydrophobic carrier) 4.62 4.32 Isopropyl myristate (Hydrophobic carrier) 4.62 4.32 Ethanol (Polar solvent) 15.00 20.00 Glyceryl monostearate (Surfactant) 0.39 0.36 Polysorbate 80 (Surfactant) 0.77 0.72 PEG-40 stearate (Surfactant) 2.31 2.16 Xanthan gum (Polymeric agent) 0.23 0.22 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Polymeric agent) 0.23 0.22 Stearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) 0.77 0.72 Preservative 0.50 0.50 Propane/Butane (Propellant) 8.00 8.00 Purified water to 100.00 to 100.00 Foam properties Foam quality Excellent Excellent Density 0.04 0.04 Formulation type Emulsion Emulsion Emulsion stability (centrifuge) Stable Stable

Example 5—Non-Flammable Foamable Carriers

Foam J % w/w Caprylic/capric triglyceride (Hydrophobic carrier) 5.00 Isopropyl myristate (Hydrophobic carrier) 5.00 Dimethyl isosorbide (Polar solvent) 59.00 Propylene glycol (Polar solvent) — Glyceryl monostearate (Surfactant) 1.00 Sorbitan monostearate (Surfactant) 8.00 Sucrose stearate (Surfactant) 8.00 Hydroxypropylcellulose (Polymeric agent) — Cetostearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) — Stearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) 5.00 Oleyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) — Preservative 0.5 1,1,1,2 tetrafluorethane (Dymel 134) 8.00 Purified water to 100.00 Foam K % w/w Mineral oil (Hydrophobic carrier) 4.32 Isopropyl myristate (Hydrophobic carrier) 4.32 Ethanol (Polar solvent) 20.00 Glyceryl monostearate (Surfactant) 0.36 Polysorbate 80 (Surfactant) 0.72 PEG-40 stearate (Surfactant) 2.16 Xanthan gum (Polymeric agent) 0.22 Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Polymeric agent) 0.22 Stearyl alcohol (Foam adjuvant) 0.72 Preservative 0.50 1,1,1,2 tetrafluorethane (Dymel 134) 8.00 Purified water to 100.00

Example 6—Inflammability Test

The following compositions were tested for inflammability according to European Standard prEN 14851: (1) Foam F; (2) Foam I; (3) Foam J; and (4) Foam K.

Procedure: Approximately 5 g of foam, mousse gel or paste is sprayed from the aerosol container on to a watchglass. An ignition source (a lighter) was placed at the base of the watchglass and any ignition and sustained combustion of the foam, mousse, gel or paste was observed. The test was carried out in a draught-free environment capable of ventilation, with the temperature controlled at 20° C.±5° C. and relative humidity in the range of 30% to 80%. According to the standard, appearance of a stable flame which is at least 4 cm high and which is maintained for at least 2 seconds defines a product as “inflammable”.

Results:

Foam F and Foam I were found “inflammable”.

Foam J and Foam K were found “non-flammable”.

Example 7

Exemplary concentrations of active agents in foamable compositions are set out in Table 2. Each active agent is added into, for example, any of the carriers listed in any of Examples 1 to 5 above in a therapeutically effective concentration and amount. The methodology of addition is well known to those of the art. The composition is adjusted in each case so that it is made up to 100% w/w as appropriate by purified water.

TABLE 2 Exemplary Concentrations of Examples of Active Agents Concen- Class tration Exemplary Use Hydrocortisone acetate 1% Steroid responsive inflammation Betamethasone valerate 0.1%   and psoriasis or atopic dermatitis Clobetasol proprionate 0.05%   Acyclovir 5% Viral infection, herpes Ciclopirox 1% Fungal infection, seborrhea, dandruff, Clindomycin 2% Bacterial infection, acne, rosacea, Azelaic acid 15%  Acne, rosacea, pigmentation disorder and various dermatoses Metronidazol 0.25%-2% Rosacea, bacterial infections and parasite infestations Diclofenac 1% Osteoarthritus, joint pain Tachrolimus 0.2%   Atopic dermatitis, eczema and inflammation

The above examples represent different drug classes and it is to be understood that other drugs belonging to each of the classes represented above may be included and used in the compositions of the present invention in a safe and effective amount. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating or alleviating a disorder, the method comprising: (a) releasing a foamable composition from a pressurized container to form a breakable foam that is stable at skin temperature and breaks upon application of shear force, said foamable composition comprising at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant and a therapeutic composition comprising: (1) a liquid organic carrier, at a concentration of about 10% to about 70% by weight of the therapeutic composition, wherein said liquid organic carrier comprises: i. at least one liquid hydrophobic organic carrier; and ii. a liquid polar solvent comprising ethanol and glycerin; wherein the hydrophobic organic carrier comprises isopropyl myristate; wherein the weight ratio between the liquid polar solvent and the at least one liquid hydrophobic organic carrier is between about 1:4 and about 4:1; (2) at least one surface-active agent selected from the group consisting of at least one non-ionic surface-active agent and a mixture of a non-ionic surface-active agent and an ionic surface-active agent, wherein the ratio of the non-ionic surface-active agent to the ionic surface-active agent is about 6:1 or greater than 6:1; (3) at least one polymeric agent selected from the group consisting of a bioadhesive agent, a gelling agent, a film forming agent, a phase change agent, and any mixtures of two or more thereof; (4) water; and (5) an active agent comprising coal tar or a coal tar extract or a tincture dissolved in all or part of the liquid polar solvent; wherein the at least one liquefied or compressed gas propellant is at a concentration of about 3% to about 25% by weight of the foamable composition, (b) applying the breakable foam to a target area having a dermatological or mucosal disorder; the disorder being selected from the group consisting of eczema, psoriasis, pruritis, dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and combinations of two or more thereof; and (c) collapsing the breakable foam by applying shear force, wherein the foam is absorbed into the target area.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein upon release from a container, a shear-sensitive foam having a density of about 0.23 gr/mL or less is produced.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising an additional polar solvent selected from the group consisting of a polyol, an alpha hydroxy acid, and any mixtures thereof, and wherein the polyol is selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, butanediol, butenediol, butynediol, pentanediol, hexanediol, octanediol, neopentyl glycol, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, dibutylene glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, and any combinations of two or more thereof.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the amount of the additional polar solvent is in the range of about 15% to about 60% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 5. The method of claim 3, wherein the hydrophobic carrier further comprises a silicone oil.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the silicone oil is selected from the group consisting of dimethicone, cyclomethicone, and any mixtures thereof.
 7. The method of claim 3, wherein the ratio of the additional polar solvent to the at least one liquid hydrophobic organic carrier is between about 3:4 and about 5:4.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the therapeutic composition further comprises a mint comprising a peppermint, a spearmint, or mixtures thereof.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid organic carrier further comprises an additional hydrophobic organic carrier selected from the group consisting of an olive oil, corn oil, soybean oil, canola oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, borage seed oil, syzigium aromaticum oil, hempseed oil, herring oil, cod-liver oil, salmon oil, flaxseed oil, wheat germ oil, evening primrose oils, omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, linoleic acid, gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), omega-3 oil, omega-6 oil, rosehip oil, tea tree oil, anise oil, basil oil, bergemont oil, camphor oil, cardamom oil, carrot oil, cassia oil, catnip oil, cedarwood oil, citronella oil, clove oil, cypress oil, eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, garlic oil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, hyssop oil, jasmine oil, jojova oil, lavender oil, lavandin oil, lemon oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrh oil, neroli oil, nutmeg oil, orange oil, peppermint oil, petitgrain oil, rosemary oil, sage oil, spearmint oil, star anise oil, tangerine oil, thyme vanilla oil, verbena oil, white clover oil, a liquid triglyceride oil, polyalkyl siloxanes, polyaryl siloxanes, polyalkylaryl siloxanes, polyether siloxane copolymers, polydimethylsiloxanes (dimethicones), poly(dimethylsiloxane)-(diphenyl-siloxane) copolymers, a silicone oil, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl isostearate, diisopropyl adipate, diisopropyl dimerate, maleated soybean oil, octyl palmitate, cetyl lactate, cetyl ricinoleate, tocopheryl acetate, cetyl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, wheat germ glycerides, arachidyl propionate, myristyl lactate, decyl oleate, propylene glycol ricinoleate, isopropyl lanolate, pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, neopentylglycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, isononyl isononanoate, isotridecyl isononanoate, myristyl myristate, octyl dodecanol, sucrose esters of fatty acids, octyl hydroxystearate, capric/caprylic triglycerides, and mixtures of any two or more thereof.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the propellant is selected from the group consisting of butane, propane, isobutane, and mixtures of any two or more thereof.
 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the additional hydrophobic carrier is selected from the group consisting of isopropyl palmitate, a liquid triglyceride oil, a silicone oil, and any mixtures of two or more thereof.
 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the additional hydrophobic carrier comprises a liquid triglyceride oil.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the liquid triglyceride oil is capric-caprylic triglycerides.
 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the additional hydrophobic carrier comprises a mint oil.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the mint oil comprises a peppermint oil.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid organic carrier further comprises an additional hydrophobic carrier comprising a silicone oil.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the silicone oil is selected from the group consisting of dimethicone, cyclomethicone, and any mixtures thereof.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the additional hydrophobic carrier further comprises a peppermint oil, a spearmint oil, or mixtures thereof.
 19. The method of claim 1, further comprising an additional polar solvent comprising a polyol and an alpha hydroxy acid.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the alpha hydroxy acid is citric acid.
 21. The method of claim 1, wherein the amount of the liquid polar solvent is in the range of about 15% to about 60% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 22. The method of claim 1, wherein the ionic surface-active agent is selected from the group consisting of an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, an ampholytic surfactant, and any mixtures of two or more thereof.
 23. The method of claim 1, wherein the surface-active agent comprises a polyethylene glycol ether.
 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one polymeric agent is a combination of xanthan gum and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.
 25. The method of claim 1, the therapeutic composition further comprising 0.1% to 5% by weight of the therapeutic composition a foam adjuvant, wherein the foam adjuvant is selected from the group consisting of a fatty alcohol having 15 or more carbons in the carbon chain; a fatty acid having 16 or more carbons in the carbon chain; fatty alcohols derived from beeswax and including a mixture of alcohols, a majority of which have at least 20 carbon atoms in the carbon chain; a fatty alcohol having an double bond; a fatty acid having an double bond; a branched fatty alcohol; a branched fatty acid; a fatty acid substituted with a hydroxyl group; cetyl alcohol; stearyl alcohol; arachidyl alcohol; behenyl alcohol; 1-triacontanol; hexadecanoic acid; stearic acid; arachidic acid; behenic acid; octacosanoic acid; 12-hydroxy stearic acid, and any mixtures of two or more thereof.
 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the combined amount of surface-active agent, gelling agent and foam adjuvant is less than about 5% by weight.
 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the foam adjuvant is stearic acid.
 28. The method of claim 1, wherein the therapeutic composition further comprises at least one of a fragrance agent, a masking agent, a buffering agent, a pH agent, a preservative, a chelating agent, an anti-oxidant, and any mixtures of two or more thereof.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the fragrance agent, the additional hydrophobic organic carrier, or both, comprise a mint oil.
 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the anti-oxidant is ascorbic acid.
 31. The method of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the liquid polar solvent to the at least one liquid hydrophobic organic carrier is between about 3:4 and about 5:4.
 32. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid organic carrier is present in an amount in the range of about 10% to about 50% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 33. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid organic carrier is present in an amount in the range of about 10% to about 39% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 34. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid organic carrier is present in an amount in the range of about 10% to about 29% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 35. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid organic carrier is present in an amount in the range of about 29% to about 70% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 36. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid polar solvent is at a concentration of about 2% to about 50% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 37. The method of claim 1, wherein the surface-active agent is at a concentration of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 38. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one polymeric agent is at a concentration of about 0.01% to about 5% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 39. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one polymeric agent is selected from the group consisting of a locust bean gum, a carrageenin gum, sodium alginate, a xanthan gum, quince seed extract, a tragacanth gum, a guar gum, a starch, chemically modified starches, cellulose ethers, a hydroxyethyl cellulose, a hydroxypropyl cellulose, a methyl cellulose, a methylhydroxyethylcellulose, a methylhydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, a hydroxyethylcarboxymethylcellulose, a carboxymethylcellulose, a carboxymethylhydroxyethylcellulose, egg albumin, gelatin agar, a hydroxypropyl guar gum, a soluble starch, cationic celluloses, cationic guars, synthetic polymeric materials, carboxyvinyl polymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid polymers, polymethacrylic acid polymers, polyvinyl acetate polymers, polyvinyl chloride polymers, polyvinylidene chloride polymers, and mixtures of two or more thereof.
 40. The method of claim 1, wherein a propellant is a mixture of volatile hydrocarbons, the mixture comprising one or more of butane, propane, and isobutane.
 41. The method of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the non-ionic surface-active agent to the ionic surface-active agent is greater than 20:1.
 42. The method of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the non-ionic surface-active agent to the ionic surface-active agent is about 16:1 or greater than 16:1.
 43. The method of claim 1, wherein the hydrophobic carrier is at a concentration of about 10% to about 40% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 44. The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid polar solvent is at a concentration of about 10% to about 40% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 45. The method of claim 1, wherein the ratio between the liquid polar solvent and the at least one liquid hydrophobic organic carrier is selected from the group consisting of about 1:4, about 1:2, about 3:4, about 1:1, about 5:4, about 2:1, about 3:1, about 6:4, about 7:4, about 3:1, about 3:4 and about 4:1.
 46. The method of claim 1, wherein the hydrophobic carrier is at a concentration of about 15% to about 59% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 47. The method of claim 1, wherein the total amount of the hydrophobic carrier and the liquid polar solvent is selected from the group consisting of about 24% by weight of the therapeutic composition, about 29% by weight of the therapeutic composition, about 39% by weight of the therapeutic composition, about 50% by weight of the therapeutic composition, about 60% by weight of the therapeutic composition, about 68% by weight of the therapeutic composition, and about 69% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 48. The method of claim 1, wherein the total amount of the hydrophobic carrier and the liquid polar solvent is about 24% to about 69% by weight of the therapeutic composition.
 49. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one liquid hydrophobic organic carrier further comprises a triglyceride, a silicone oil, a mint oil and mixtures of any two or more thereof, wherein the at least one polymeric agent comprises a cellulose ether, a gum or both, wherein the surface-active agent comprises a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, and wherein the therapeutic composition further comprises a foam adjuvant comprising a fatty acid having 16 or more carbons in its carbon chain.
 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the triglyceride comprises caprylic/capric triglycerides, wherein the silicone oil comprises a cyclomethicone, a dimethicone, and mixtures thereof, wherein the mint oil comprises a peppermint oil, wherein the cellulose ether comprises a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, wherein the gum comprises a xanthan gum, and wherein the fatty acid comprises stearic acid.
 51. The method of claim 1, wherein the amount of the liquid polar solvent is in the range of about 15% to about 62% by weight of the therapeutic composition. 